ICP-OES Metal Analysis
ICP-OES Metal Analysis for Detailed Element Reporting
Metralis uses ICP-OES metal analysis for detailed multi-element reporting across complex recycling and recovery materials. It is a core laboratory method for quantifying platinum group metals and supporting elements in samples where accurate numbers matter for pricing, settlement, process control, and recovery planning.
ICP-OES is especially useful for catalyst leachates, refinery solutions, ore digests, recycled materials, and other complex matrices where several elements need to be measured at the same time. It gives clear quantitative data and supports repeatable reporting for business use.
3
Main PGMs
5+
Complex Matrices
4
Business Uses
Best-fit material types
Catalytic and PGM-bearing fractions.
Refinery solutions and process control samples.
Ore digests and mineral-related concentrates.
Mixed recycling and recovery materials with several relevant elements.
Certifications and Accreditations
What ICP-OES is used for
- Platinum, palladium, rhodium, and other relevant element quantification in complex samples.
- Multi-element reporting where both precious metals and base metals matter.
- Process control work on refinery, catalyst, and recovery streams.
- Detailed reporting when a sample needs more than a first screening result.


Where it fits in our process
- After sample preparation and dissolution – ICP-OES is used once the sample is ready for detailed quantitative measurement.
- As part of the wider method stack – It works alongside XRF and Fire Assay inside a structured laboratory process.
- For final reporting – The goal is a clear technical picture that supports valuation, processing, and settlement decisions.
Why businesses choose Metralis for this work
- Strong multi-element capability – Several relevant elements can be measured in one method.
- Good fit for complex matrices – ICP-OES performs well across difficult recycling and refinery-related streams.
- Reliable for repeat laboratory work – It supports clear reporting across larger sample volumes and ongoing submissions.
- Practical reporting – The end result is built to support action, not technical complexity for its own sake.
4
Business Advantages
1
Multi-element Method
2+
Complex Streams
Testimonials
"We appreciate Metralis for their detailed and transparent analysis of precious metals. Their service helps us maximize value and optimize our recycling processes."
"Metralis has significantly improved our workflow by providing detailed and dependable metal analysis. Their expertise is invaluable to us."
"We rely on Metralis for their precision and efficiency. Their flexible pricing model and quick turnaround time make them a standout choice for laboratory analysis."
"Metralis understands the fast-paced nature of metal trading. Their detailed reports and prompt service help us stay competitive in the market."
"Metralis provides top-tier analysis services, helping us make informed decisions with confidence. Their reliability makes all the difference."
"Metralis delivers fast and precise metal analysis, essential for our business. Their team is responsive and professional, making collaboration seamless."

"Trust is everything in the recycling industry, and Metralis has earned ours with their consistent accuracy and professionalism."
"Thanks to Metralis, we can ensure the highest standards in our metal refining process. Their analysis is always precise, allowing us to maintain top quality."
"We’ve worked with several labs, but Metralis stands out with their accuracy, efficiency, and customer-focused approach. A true partner in the industry!"

What is ICP-OES metal analysis used for?
ICP-OES metal analysis is used for detailed multi-element reporting when a sample needs more than a quick first screen. It is especially useful for complex recycling, recovery, refinery, and catalyst-related materials where several elements matter at the same time.
When do you use ICP-OES instead of XRF?
XRF is useful for first-stage screening, while ICP-OES is used when the work needs deeper quantitative reporting. ICP‑OES enters the process as the primary and most accurate method for determining precious metals.
Is ICP-OES relevant for platinum group metals?
Yes. ICP-OES is highly useful for platinum group metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, and it can also support reporting on additional relevant elements in the same sample. This makes it a strong fit for PGM-bearing material.
Can ICP-OES support refinery and process control work?
Yes. ICP-OES is well suited to refinery solutions, catalyst leachates, process control samples, and other streams where repeat measurement and consistent element reporting are important. It works well in environments where the same type of analysis is needed regularly.
Is ICP-OES useful for complex recycling materials?
Yes. It performs well across mixed and difficult matrices where both precious metals and base metals may affect value or process planning. That is why it is often used for recycled materials, recovery streams, and catalyst-related samples.
Can ICP-OES be part of a multi-step analysis process?
Yes. ICP-OES is not used in isolation. It works as part of a wider method stack together with XRF, Fire Assay, sample preparation, and the reporting logic needed to turn laboratory data into clear decisions.